Azelastine is prescribed to treat symptoms caused by allergic reactions. Ophthalmic azelastine (eye drops) are prescribed to reduce itching, redness, and discomfort caused by allergic conjunctivitis. As a nasal spray, azelastine reduces runny nose symptoms as well as itching and sneezing.

Allergies happen when your body thinks that harmless substances, like pet dander or peanuts, are actually pathogens that could make you sick. When this happens, your body prompts an immune response - which causes the symptoms like itchy eyes, itchy or runny nose, and scratchy throat that make allergic reactions troublesome.

Seasonal allergy symptoms can include allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, sinus pressure or pain, nasal congestion), and swollen or red itchy eyes. There is no cure for allergies, but the symptoms listed above can be managed with a treatment plan.

Azelastine has been shown to cause some side effects. If these mild reactions do not go away within a few days, talk to your health care provider.

Common side effects reported while taking azelastine include:

• Bitter taste
  
• Fatigue
  
• Headaches
  
• Nasal burning (nasal spray)
  
• Burning or stinging (eye drops)
  
• Weight gain
  

This is not a complete list of adverse reactions caused by azelastine. Call your doctor right away if you experience any difficulty breathing or a skin rash.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Azelastine can interact with other forms of medication, causing potentially serious side effects.

The specific starting dose of azelastine will vary depending on how the medication is being administered (eye drops vs. nasal spray), as well as your age.

Nasal Spray: Adults and children over the age of 12 should apply 1-2 sprays into each nostril 2 times a day. Children under the age of 12 should be given 1 spray into each nostril 2 times a day.

Eye Drops: For adults and children over the age of 3, apply 1 drop to the affected eye 2 times a day.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of azelastine without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Azelastine is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not azelastine is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for azelastine to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.